Xbox Secures a PlayStation Exclusive, While Mac Mini Outshines PCs

Xbox fans were treated to an early holiday surprise with the release of Death Stranding Director’s Cut on Xbox Series X|S and Windows 11. This title, supporting Xbox Play Anywhere, is a welcome addition to Xbox’s expanding catalog of games that were once exclusive to other platforms.

In other news, this week brought a few noteworthy developments: Sam Altman shared an unexpected perspective on Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), Microsoft 365 announced price hikes in certain areas, and Apple’s new Mac mini left Windows-powered mini PCs lagging behind.

Death Stranding Debuts on Xbox Series X|S

In an unexpected twist, Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding Director’s Cut made its way to Xbox Series X|S and Windows 11, surprising the gaming world. Even more exciting is the support for Xbox Play Anywhere with this launch. Word spread quickly that Kojima Productions has obtained full rights to the Death Stranding franchise, hinting at the possibility of a sequel on Xbox.

Kojima Productions expressed their excitement to finally bring the game to Xbox players, thanking fans for their patience and promising to continue connecting gamers worldwide. As reported by Automaton-Media, this move further enriches the Xbox library with titles many once thought might never make it to the console. This expansion coincides with the announcement that the Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters and Genshin Impact are also coming to Xbox Series X|S.

Sam Altman’s Take on AGI

The AI world is abuzz with discussions about AGI—artificial general intelligence. While the tech industry races to achieve this milestone, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman offers a refreshingly different view. Instead of worrying about the timeline or consequences, Altman foresees AGI emerging naturally, saying it may cause less societal disruption than expected. He predicts that technological advancements will continue at a breakneck pace, and AGI’s arrival might be something people quickly move past amid ongoing scientific progress.

Microsoft 365’s Price Hike: Blame Copilot

Microsoft 365 is gearing up for a price increase in several regions. The company attributes this to enhancements like Copilot, suggesting the added value justifies the higher cost. However, subscribers might see this differently. The upcoming price change, impacting regions such as Australia, New Zealand, and various Asian countries, will take effect upon subscribers’ next renewal. Microsoft plans to offer a Classic option for those uninterested in Copilot, though details are sparse.

Apple’s M4 Mac Mini Rocks the Market

Not strictly Windows news, but too big to ignore, is Apple’s unveiling of the M4 Mac mini, setting new standards for small form factor PCs. According to TechRadar’s review, this new Mac mini stands unrivaled in its category, thanks to its compact design and enhanced processing power. For those committed to Windows, it might be best to steer clear of the mini PC market for now, as Apple seems to have secured its top spot for the foreseeable future.

Reviews

Our experts are constantly evaluating the latest in tech, from gadgets to games to accessories. This week, a standout was Neva, an Xbox title praised by Zachary Boddy, who called it a genuine masterpiece that even brought them to tears. Boddy highlighted the game’s breathtaking visuals and emotionally charged story, although noting its brevity.

Another highlight was Corsair’s K70 Pro TKL keyboard, earning accolades for its hall effect sensors, customizable actuation points, and vibrant RGB lighting. Harish Jonnalagadda praised its magnetically actuated switches, which offer a tactile and customizable experience, making it an excellent choice for gamers seeking refined inputs.

Early Black Friday Deals

As Black Friday approaches, early deals are already appearing. Our team diligently searches for stellar offers, ensuring you have the latest, must-see deals brought right to you. Keep an eye on our up-to-date lists and curated picks to snag those coveted bargains.